Changing masculinity is vital. We need to, and by we I mean other men, critically evaluate and interrogate what we have been taught around notions of traditional masculinity.

The brooding, strong, silent type that never expresses emotion until he blows up in a fit of rage, is a huge factor in the proliferation of dysfunctional families, emotionally stunted men, and abused women. Traditional masculinity and our ideas of what strength, power, heroism, and bravery mean, are inexplicably linked to the foundations of sexism, racism, homophobia, and paternalism.

We need to challenge ourselves and other men to promote new forms of masculinity that strive toward ideals of respect, strength of character, self insight, responsibility of physical strength, and further nurturing the growth of boys and young men into healthy, adult males that respect girls and women as their equals.